BADGER digging has risen sharply in North Wales sparking an urgent crackdown by police.

Since December 11 police have received 11 reports of persecution of badgers - a protected animal.

And the Wrexham area is causing police particular concern. They are investigating claims of badger digging and the destruction of setts, the burrows badgers make to live in.

'In one instance a sett had been damaged by crowning down into it,' said North Wales Police Wildlife and Environment Officer Sgt Pete Charleston.

'These excavations, which amounted to a large pit, were so large and deep that it was seen as a threat to the safety of children attending a nearby primary school.

'Another complaint saw witnesses report a gang of men walking across a valley floor openly carrying the carcass of a dead badger. Other reports relate to men and dogs in the vicinity of setts.'

Badgers are looked after under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 which not only safeguards the badger but also the sett when the badger is away from it.

The Hunting Act 2004 will increase the protection by outlawing the use of dogs underground.

Clwyd Badger Group offers a reward of £1,000 to anyone who gives information which leads to the conviction of badger diggers.

Diggers can receive a £5,000 fine and six-month jail term for their crime plus a ban on keeping dogs.

Badger digging, particularly in North Wales, is hazardous for dogs as the sandy soil can collapse on them as they dig, suffocating them.

'This vile activity has no place in a civilised society,' said Badger Group spokesman Elwyn Jones.

'Please phone the police immediately if you believe your local badgers are under threat. Remember to give police as much information as possible, especially car registration numbers.

'If you would prefer we told police, then contact us and give us all the details. Write to Clwyd Badger Group, PO Box 708, Earl Road, Mold CH7 2AA and we will let you know your local contact for the group.'

Sgt Charleston also urged people to call: 'We are appealing for help from members of the public by asking them to report all instances of suspicious activity taking place around badger setts,' he said.

'If you see activity like this call North Wales Police on 0845 6071002, myself on 01248 385784, or email p.charleston@ccw.org.uk.'